How Often Should Full Synthetic Oil Be Changed?
4 Answers
Full synthetic oil should be changed every 1 year or 10,000 kilometers. More information about full synthetic oil changes is as follows: 1. Full synthetic oil: This refers to an artificially manufactured oil produced by chemically decomposing various natural substances during the manufacturing process and then synthesizing them with other substances. Using full synthetic oil in cars can extend the engine's service life and reduce maintenance rates. 2. Full synthetic oil has superior characteristics: It offers better high and low-temperature performance, is suitable for harsher driving conditions, and has high lubricity, low friction resistance, resistance to oxidation, and strong cleaning properties. Therefore, full synthetic oil has a longer oil change interval. 3. Adjust the oil change interval based on the actual driving conditions: Engine oil has a certain shelf life and effectiveness. If the car operates in harsh conditions or frequently idles for extended periods, it is advisable to shorten the full synthetic oil change interval, recommending an early change by 1,000 kilometers or 1 month. Additionally, if noticeable engine vibration or increased engine noise is observed, the oil should be changed as soon as possible.
I've always used full synthetic oil in my car, and based on personal experience, it really depends on the situation. I usually change it every 10,000 kilometers, which is about eight months. During my last maintenance, the mechanic specifically reminded me that if you frequently drive short distances or get stuck in city traffic, the engine temperature doesn't rise enough, and gasoline can mix into the oil. In such cases, it's safer to change it earlier, around 8,000 kilometers. My neighbor's car, which often drives on highways, can last up to 15,000 kilometers. Oh, and don't forget to check the car's computer reminders—some new cars will indicate the oil life. Last time, I went for a change when it showed 15% remaining. Definitely don't delay too long; if it goes beyond two years, the oil viscosity won't be sufficient anymore.
I'm particularly concerned about using full synthetic engine oil because my friend's repair shop mentioned a few key points. The general recommendation is to change it every six months to a year, but it mainly depends on usage intensity. For example, I drive about 20 kilometers daily for commuting, so I typically change it every 10 months. If you frequently carry heavy loads uphill or enjoy sudden acceleration, you should change it earlier, around 8,000 kilometers. Turbocharged vehicles require even more frequent changes because the high-temperature working environment accelerates oil degradation. Last month, I just added a fuel additive to my car and also changed the oil ahead of schedule, as such additives can affect oil performance. Another tip is that in northern regions with significant temperature differences between winter and summer, it's best to check the oil's fluidity seasonally.
The maintenance interval for fully synthetic engine oil shouldn't be rigidly applied as a formula. When I last had my car serviced, I asked the technician in detail, who said it's generally between 8,000 to 15,000 kilometers. For my specific older vehicle, I have the mechanic check the oil viscosity during each maintenance, observing the diffusion ring state via test strips. Once, the test revealed impurity deposits after only 7,000 kilometers, which was later traced to a torn air filter allowing dust contamination. Now I always inspect the three filters during oil changes. Additionally, there are variations between oil brands - a European brand I used lasted about 2,000 kilometers longer than Japanese equivalents. Vehicles with modified exhaust systems require even shorter intervals, as high temperatures affect oil stability.
